PORNOGRAPHIC images on computer screens at Herne Bay library have alarmed a mother who is calling for action to be taken.

The woman, who has asked not to be identified, told the Herne Bay Gazette: "People have been going in there and looking at inappropriate material. I find it unbelievable that it is going on."

"Library staff are not allowed to police what people are looking at on the internet because it infringes people's civil rights."

The woman described it as "a massive gap in the protective system".

She added; "Speaking as a mother, it is a matter of great concern. I know a lot of the staff in the library and they are disgusted but have been told they can't do anything about it.

"My child is two and I feel very uncomfortable going in there if these people are looking at indecent images on the screens."

The woman said she could understand and appreciate the Government's policy to ensure computer access was available to everybody.

She believes at the same time though, strict restrictions are essential to limit the material accessible through public services like the library.

She has spoken to other parents in Herne Bay who are aware of the situation and are similarly disgusted.

A county council spokesman said: "While it is not our policy to look over each and every person's shoulder, library staff are asked to be vigilant for users who are looking at inappropriate material. If a member of staff becomes aware of a problem on a particular machine, then library staff can isolate that machine and monitor what has been accessed."

Library computers are fitted with a filtering system to block unsuitable websites.